ERROR_DS_FILTER_USES_CONTRUCTED_ATTRS - 8555 (0x216B)

A Filter was passed that uses constructed attributes.

Updated: Feb 21, 2026

Technical Meaning

This error code indicates that a filter passed to an operation within the Active Directory Domain Services (AD DS) or related directory services APIs uses constructed attributes. Constructed attributes are derived from other attributes and cannot be directly queried or indexed.

Error Details

The error ERROR_DS_FILTER_USES_CONSTRUCTED_ATTRS is returned when a filter in a search operation includes an attribute that has been defined as a constructed attribute. This can occur during operations such as querying directory objects using LDAP filters, where the filter syntax references attributes that are not directly stored in the directory.

Usage Context

This error typically arises in scenarios involving directory searches or queries where the filtering criteria include attributes that are derived from other attributes rather than being simple attribute values. For example, a search operation might attempt to filter based on a calculated value or an attribute generated by a specific rule within the directory service.

Developer Interpretation

Developers should ensure that filters used in directory operations do not reference constructed attributes unless explicitly supported by the API or query mechanism. Constructed attributes are generally intended for internal use and may not be directly usable in filtering criteria without proper handling.

Related Errors

  • ERROR_DS_ATT_NOT_DEF_IN_SCHEMA (0x215F): The attribute is not defined in the schema, which could lead to a constructed attribute being misused.
  • ERROR_DS_DRA_OUT_OF_MEM (0x216E): Memory allocation failure during directory replication or operation, which might indirectly affect filter usage.

FAQ

Q: What does this error mean?

A: This error indicates that the filter used in a directory query includes an attribute that is constructed and cannot be directly queried or indexed.

Q: How can I avoid this error?

A: Ensure that filters used in directory operations do not reference attributes that are defined as constructed unless explicitly supported by the API.

Summary

The ERROR_DS_FILTER_USES_CONSTRUCTED_ATTRS error code is a specific technical indicator within Active Directory and related directory services APIs, highlighting an issue with filter usage. Developers should be aware of this limitation when designing queries or filters to ensure correct operation.